Common colds affect children often – sometimes more than eight times a year – especially if they attend school or creche. While colds are usually mild, they can cause discomfort and worry for parents, especially when symptoms linger. Unlike the flu, the common cold tends to come on gradually and doesn’t usually cause high fever or body aches.
Here’s what you need to know about managing colds at home, and when to get help.
What Causes a Cold?
The common cold is caused by viruses, most commonly rhinoviruses. It affects the upper respiratory tract – the nose, throat, and sinuses – and spreads easily through coughs, sneezes, or touching contaminated hands or surfaces.
Common Cold Symptoms in Children
Cold symptoms tend to develop gradually and may include:
- Runny or blocked nose
- Sneezing
- Sore throat
- Mild cough
- Low-grade fever (more common in younger children)
- Irritability or tiredness
- Decreased appetite
Most colds last 7 to 10 days. A lingering cough may persist even after other symptoms improve.
Home Management of Colds
1. Fluids: Keep your child hydrated with breastmilk/formula, water, rooibos tea, or diluted juice. Warm fluids can soothe sore throats. Offering small, frequent sips is helpful when their appetite is low.
2. Nasal Saline and Suction: Use saline nose drops to loosen mucous, followed by suctioning with a device like the Nose Frida – especially before feeds or naps.
3. Decongestant Nose Drops: For older infants and children, medicated nose drops (e.g. Iliadin) may be used for up to 5 days to relieve congestion. Always follow age-specific guidance.
4. Humidified Air: Using a humidifier can help ease breathing by adding moisture to dry indoor air, especially during winter. If you don’t have a humidifier, placing a bowl of warm water in the room can act as a simple, natural alternative. As the water evaporates, it adds gentle humidity to the air – just be sure to place it safely out of reach of children.
5. Rest: Encourage quiet play and naps to help the body recover.
6. Fever or Pain Relief: Paracetamol or Ibuprofen can help with discomfort or fever. Always follow dosage guidelines for your child’s weight and age.
7. Elevate the Upper Body: Keeping your baby slightly upright (in arms, car seat, or using a wedge pillow) can reduce nasal congestion and improve breathing during sleep.
Over-the-counter cough and cold medicines are not recommended for young children and may cause harm. Always consult your doctor before using any medication.
When to See a Doctor
- Fever lasting more than 3 days
- Cough that worsens instead of improving
- Laboured or fast breathing
- Signs of dehydration (e.g. fewer wet nappies, dry mouth)
- Ear pulling or signs of ear pain
- Extreme tiredness or difficulty waking
If symptoms persist or worsen, your child may have more than just a cold – such as a chest infection or ear infection.
Can Colds Be Prevented?
- Encourage regular handwashing with soap
- Keep sick children home from school or daycare
- Clean toys and high-touch surfaces frequently
- Teach children to cough or sneeze into their elbow
- Avoid close contact with people who are unwell
We’re Here to Help
At Health Hive, our team is here to support you through every sniffle, sneeze, and concern. If you’re unsure whether your child needs to be seen, don’t hesitate to book an appointment. We’ll help you manage symptoms and put your mind at ease.
Also read: Understanding Coughs in Children – our guide to different types of coughs and what they mean.
References:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Common Colds: Protect Yourself and Others. https://www.cdc.gov/features/rhinoviruses/index.html
- Mayo Clinic. Common Cold in Children. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/common-cold/in-depth/common-cold/art-20046464
- Stanford Medicine Children’s Health. When to See a Doctor for a Cold. https://www.stanfordchildrens.org/en/topic/default?id=common-cold